The Riyadh International Philosophy Conference 2025 is set to take place in the capital, Riyadh, from December 4 to 6, under the theme “Philosophy Between East and West: Concepts, Origins, and Mutual Influences.” Now in its fifth edition, the conference continues to strengthen its position as a global intellectual platform that brings together philosophers, scholars, and thinkers from around the world. The event aims to explore the historical foundations of Eastern and Western philosophical traditions, examine their development over time, and analyze the points of convergence and mutual influence between them.
The conference features a comprehensive agenda that includes keynote speeches delivered by internationally recognized experts in philosophy and the humanities, alongside specialized panel discussions and practical workshops covering a wide range of contemporary philosophical topics. It also offers interactive tracks tailored to different audiences, including a “Future Philosophers” program designed to introduce children to critical thinking, and a “Philosophy 101” track aimed at presenting philosophical ideas in an accessible and engaging format for the general public.
In addition to academic sessions, the conference includes creative and experiential activities such as “Philosophy Around the World” and “Journey of the Idea,” offering participants an immersive cultural experience that highlights philosophy as a living practice rather than a purely theoretical discipline. The event also features contributions from international universities and research centers, each presenting diverse perspectives that foster intellectual exchange across different philosophical traditions.
A key focus of the conference is to revisit and emphasize the role of non-Western philosophies in shaping human thought. Through a series of profound questions — such as whether philosophy is a universal human endeavor, how it embraces cultural diversity, and what role it can play today in addressing modern global challenges — the conference aims to create deeper connections between Eastern and Western intellectual traditions. Ultimately, it seeks to build lasting philosophical and cultural bridges that enrich global understanding and encourage meaningful cross-cultural dialogue.
